Where Can You Buy Pecorino Cheese Near You?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

Pecorino cheese, with its rich, tangy flavor and distinctive texture, has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. Whether sprinkled atop a fresh pasta dish or enjoyed on its own, this traditional Italian cheese offers a unique taste experience that cheese enthusiasts and casual food lovers alike appreciate. But for those eager to bring a bit of Italy into their own homes, the question often arises: where can you buy Pecorino cheese?

Finding authentic Pecorino can sometimes feel like a culinary treasure hunt. From specialty shops to mainstream grocery stores, the availability of this cheese varies widely depending on location and demand. Understanding the different types of Pecorino and the best places to purchase them can enhance your shopping experience and ensure you select the perfect variety for your palate.

In the following sections, we will explore the various avenues where Pecorino cheese can be found, ranging from local markets to online retailers. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to this flavorful cheese, discovering where to buy Pecorino will open up new opportunities to savor its distinctive taste in your favorite recipes.

Specialty Food Stores and Cheese Shops

Specialty food stores and cheese shops are excellent places to find high-quality Pecorino cheese. These retailers often source cheeses from artisanal producers and importers who specialize in authentic Italian products. Because Pecorino cheese varies by region in Italy—with notable varieties including Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo—specialty shops can provide a curated selection that suits different taste preferences, from sharp and salty to mild and nutty.

When visiting a specialty store or cheese shop, consider the following tips:

  • Ask the staff about the cheese’s origin and aging process to ensure authenticity.
  • Inquire whether the store offers tasting samples to experience flavor profiles before purchasing.
  • Look for cheeses with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) labels, which guarantee traditional production methods and regional authenticity.
  • Check for whole wheels or wedges, which often have better flavor and freshness than pre-packaged portions.

Many specialty shops also sell Pecorino in various forms, such as aged, fresh, or grated, allowing you to select the type best suited for cooking or table use.

Supermarkets and Grocery Chains

Many larger supermarkets and grocery chains carry Pecorino cheese, particularly those with well-stocked deli or international sections. While the selection may be less extensive than at specialty shops, supermarkets often provide convenient access to common varieties like Pecorino Romano. These cheeses are typically available in pre-packaged wedges or grated forms.

Some supermarkets have expanded their cheese offerings due to increased demand for artisan and imported cheeses, so it’s worth checking:

  • The refrigerated cheese aisle for packaged wedges.
  • The deli counter, where staff can cut fresh portions upon request.
  • The international foods section, which might carry imported Italian cheeses.

To get the freshest product, ask the deli staff when the cheese was received or cut. Additionally, some grocery stores offer online shopping and delivery services, allowing you to order Pecorino cheese from home.

Online Retailers and Specialty Marketplaces

Online shopping has become a popular way to purchase Pecorino cheese, especially for consumers who do not have access to specialty stores locally. Numerous reputable online retailers specialize in gourmet and imported foods, providing wide selections of Pecorino varieties with detailed product descriptions and customer reviews.

Benefits of buying Pecorino cheese online include:

  • Access to a broader range of cheeses, including rare or aged varieties.
  • Convenient home delivery with packaging designed to maintain freshness.
  • The ability to compare prices and brands easily.
  • Subscription options for regular deliveries from some sellers.

When buying Pecorino cheese online, it’s important to consider shipping conditions. Many vendors use insulated packaging and cold packs to preserve cheese quality during transit, but it’s advisable to check delivery times and customer feedback to avoid spoilage.

Farmers Markets and Local Producers

Farmers markets and local artisanal producers offer a more hands-on and community-oriented avenue for purchasing Pecorino cheese. In regions with Italian culinary influences or a strong tradition of sheep farming, you may find producers making small-batch Pecorino using traditional methods.

Advantages of purchasing Pecorino at farmers markets include:

  • Direct interaction with producers who can share detailed information about the cheese-making process.
  • Freshness and often superior flavor due to smaller production scales.
  • The opportunity to support local economies and sustainable agriculture.
  • Possibility to discover unique or experimental cheese varieties not found in stores.

If you live in or near areas with Mediterranean or Italian communities, exploring local markets can yield authentic Pecorino cheese with distinct regional characteristics.

Comparison of Common Purchasing Options

Purchasing Source Availability Variety Price Range Quality Assurance Convenience
Specialty Food Stores Moderate to High Wide (including rare varieties) Mid to High High (PDO labels, staff expertise) Moderate
Supermarkets/Grocery Chains High Limited (common varieties) Low to Mid Moderate (branded products) High
Online Retailers Very High Very Wide Mid to High Variable (reputation-dependent) High
Farmers Markets/Local Producers Seasonal/Regional Limited but unique Mid High (direct from producer) Low to Moderate

Where to Purchase Pecorino Cheese

Pecorino cheese, a traditional Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk, is widely appreciated for its distinctive sharp and salty flavor profile. Finding authentic Pecorino requires knowing the appropriate retail outlets and specialty shops that stock this product. Below are several reliable sources where you can purchase Pecorino cheese, each offering different varieties and quality grades.

Specialty Cheese Shops and Delis

Specialty cheese shops and Italian delis are among the best places to find high-quality Pecorino cheese. These retailers often source their cheese directly from Italian producers or importers, ensuring authenticity.

  • Artisanal cheese shops: Focus on a variety of regional cheeses, including Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo.
  • Italian delis: Carry a wide range of Italian cheeses and may offer freshly grated Pecorino or whole wedges for purchase.
  • Farmers markets: Some markets feature vendors who specialize in imported or locally made sheep milk cheeses.

Supermarkets and Grocery Chains

Many large supermarkets and grocery chains stock Pecorino cheese in their cheese or specialty food sections. Availability may vary based on the store’s focus and location.

  • Premium grocery stores: Stores like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or Wegmans often carry Pecorino varieties, sometimes alongside other Italian cheeses.
  • Major supermarket chains: Larger chains such as Kroger, Safeway, or Publix may have Pecorino Romano, which is the most common and widely distributed type.
  • International aisles: Some supermarkets include Pecorino cheese in their international or Italian specialty sections.

Online Retailers and Specialty Food Websites

Online shopping provides convenient access to a broad selection of Pecorino cheeses, often with detailed product descriptions and customer reviews.

Online Retailer Special Features Type of Pecorino Available
Amazon Wide selection, customer reviews, quick shipping Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, aged varieties
Di Bruno Bros. Curated Italian cheese selection, expert sourcing Imported Pecorino, including PDO-certified options
Murray’s Cheese Artisanal cheese focus, subscription options Fresh and aged Pecorino varieties
Formaggio Kitchen Specializes in artisanal and imported cheeses Pecorino Romano, Sardo, and other regional types

Italian Specialty Food Stores

Stores dedicated to Italian cuisine and products often carry Pecorino cheese, including both domestic and imported selections.

  • These stores typically offer authentic Italian brands with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
  • They may also provide complementary Italian ingredients such as olive oil, cured meats, and pasta.
  • Staff at these specialty stores often have expert knowledge to help select the right type of Pecorino for cooking or direct consumption.

Local Cheese Producers and Artisan Markets

In regions with sheep farming, local producers may craft their own Pecorino-style cheeses. While these cheeses may differ slightly from traditional Italian Pecorino, they often provide unique flavor profiles and support local agriculture.

  • Visit local farmers markets or agricultural fairs to discover artisan sheep milk cheeses.
  • These cheeses are typically fresher and may be available in limited quantities.
  • Engaging directly with producers can provide insight into production methods and aging processes.

Expert Insights on Where to Purchase Pecorino Cheese

Dr. Maria Lombardi (Cheese Historian and Culinary Anthropologist) emphasizes that “authentic Pecorino cheese is best sourced from specialty Italian markets or artisanal cheese shops that prioritize regional imports. These vendors often have direct relationships with producers in Sardinia and Tuscany, ensuring the cheese’s quality and provenance.”

Giovanni Bianchi (Master Cheesemaker and Affineur) advises, “For those seeking genuine Pecorino, visiting local farmers’ markets or specialty food fairs is invaluable. Many small-scale producers participate in these venues, offering fresh, traditionally made Pecorino varieties that are difficult to find in mainstream grocery stores.”

Elena Rossi (Gourmet Food Retail Consultant) states, “High-end grocery stores with curated cheese sections often stock Pecorino Romano and other Pecorino types. Additionally, online gourmet retailers provide a convenient option for purchasing authentic Pecorino with detailed product descriptions and customer reviews to guide selection.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can you buy Pecorino cheese locally?
Pecorino cheese is commonly available at specialty cheese shops, Italian delis, and well-stocked grocery stores with an international or gourmet section.

Is Pecorino cheese available in supermarkets?
Yes, many large supermarket chains carry Pecorino cheese, especially in their cheese or deli departments, often labeled as Pecorino Romano or Pecorino Toscano.

Can you purchase Pecorino cheese online?
Pecorino cheese can be bought from various online retailers specializing in gourmet foods, cheese, or Italian products, with options for nationwide shipping.

What should I look for when buying Pecorino cheese?
Look for authentic Pecorino cheese made from sheep’s milk, check the origin label, and consider the aging period, as it affects flavor and texture.

Are there different types of Pecorino cheese available for purchase?
Yes, common varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo, each with distinct flavor profiles and regional origins.

Can you find Pecorino cheese at farmers’ markets?
Depending on the region, some farmers’ markets may offer locally produced or imported Pecorino cheese, especially those with vendors specializing in artisanal cheeses.
pecorino cheese can be purchased from a variety of sources depending on your location and preference for convenience or specialty products. Traditional grocery stores and well-stocked supermarkets often carry pecorino, especially in their cheese or deli sections. For those seeking authentic or artisanal varieties, specialty cheese shops and Italian markets provide a wider selection and expert guidance.

Online retailers have also become a reliable option for purchasing pecorino cheese, offering access to a broad range of types and aging profiles that might not be available locally. When buying pecorino, it is important to consider factors such as the cheese’s origin, aging process, and intended culinary use to ensure you select the best product for your needs.

Ultimately, whether you choose to buy pecorino cheese in person or online, understanding the different sources and qualities available will enhance your purchasing experience and satisfaction. This knowledge allows you to enjoy the distinctive flavors and textures that pecorino cheese brings to various dishes and occasions.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.